The New Jersey Devils have signed first-round draft pick Stefan Matteau to an entry-level contract. As per team policy, terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Devils president and general manager Lou Lamoriello announced the signing of the teams first-round pick in this years NHL Entry Draft on Tuesday and had nothing but praise for the 18-year-old.

“Stefan Matteau is a size-and-strength power forward,” Lamoriello said, “who we consider to be one of our top prospects.”

If the name ‘Matteau’ sounds familiar, it should. Matteau is the son of former Rangers forward Stephane Matteau. Stephane with a “ph” not “f” scored two double-overtime goals in the 1994 conference finals for the New York Rangers, including the dagger in game-seven of the legendary series. New York went on to win the Stanley Cup. It was the Rangers first and last Stanley Cup since 1940.

The junior Matteau spent the past two seasons with the United States Development Program where he recorded respectable numbers. He played in 46 games for the Under-18 team, collecting 15 goals and 32 points. The season prior to last, while playing for the Under-17 squad he scored seven goals to go along with 11 helpers.

Matteau will play for the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada of the QMJHL where his Dad is an assistant coach.

When the Devils first drafted Matteau I was a bit skeptical. I’m not anymore. The team is very high on him and at 6’2″ and 215 lbs., Matteau already has NHL size. He is still very green competitively, but give him a few seasons against top-end talent and he could be another draft gem for the Devils.
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